Are you interested in becoming a backend developer but don’t know where to start? This guide will walk you through the steps to learn backend development in just 60 days, from the skills and knowledge you need to the recommended resources for learning, and tips for success in the field. Here is the youtube video we made.
Step 1: Learn backend Basics by building basic API’s
Before you can start building API projects, you need to have a solid understanding of backend development. This includes the basics of programming languages like JavaScript and Python, as well as concepts like databases, servers, and APIs. Some of the skills you’ll need to master include:
- Basic programming concepts like variables, loops, and functions
- Databases and data structures
- Servers and network communication
- APIs and web services
- Debugging and testing
- Create small API’s like a API that takes 2 number(s) and adds them
There are plenty of online resources to help you learn these skills, including free courses, tutorials, and coding challenges. Some popular options include Codecademy, FreeCodeCamp, and W3Schools. You can also try attending a coding bootcamp or taking a course at a local community college.
Step 2: Build More Small API Projects to Boost Your Learning Curve
Once you have a solid foundation in backend development, it’s time to start building small API projects. This is where you’ll put your skills to the test and start building real-world applications that can be used by others. Some popular types of API projects that beginners can build include:
- A weather app that displays current weather data for a given location using an API like OpenWeatherMap or WeatherStack. To build this project, you’ll need to learn how to make API requests, parse JSON data, and display information in a user-friendly way.
- A news aggregator that pulls headlines from different sources using an API like NewsAPI or Google News. To build this project, you’ll need to learn how to work with APIs that require authentication, filter and sort data, and create a responsive user interface.
- A stock tracker that displays real-time stock prices and trends using an API like Alpha Vantage or Yahoo Finance. To build this project, you’ll need to learn how to work with APIs that provide real-time data, create data visualizations, and handle errors and exceptions.
- A recipe app that searches for and displays recipes based on specific criteria using an API like Spoonacular or Edamam. To build this project, you’ll need to learn how to work with APIs that require query parameters, filter and sort data, and create a database to store and retrieve information.
To get started, you can use RapidAPI to find and use existing APIs, or build your own using popular frameworks like Flask or Express. RapidAPI is a platform that allows developers to easily access and use thousands of APIs in one place. You can also find inspiration from other developers on sites like GitHub or Stack Overflow.
Step 3: Get Feedback and Improve
As you build your API projects, it’s important to get feedback from other developers and users. This can help you identify areas for improvement and learn best practices from others in the field. You can share your projects on forums like Reddit or Hacker News, or ask for feedback from friends or family members who have coding experience.
Using tools like chatGPT and other AI-powered development assistants can also help you identify and fix errors in your code, or suggest ways to improve your projects. Don’t be afraid to ask for help or seek out mentorship from more experienced developers in the field.
Step 4: Use Free Resources to Learn More
Finally, it’s important to continue learning and building your skills even after you’ve completed your 60-day journey. There are plenty of free resources available online to help you stay up-to-date with the latest trends and technologies in the backend development world. Some popular options include:
- Stack Overflow and other developer forums: These online communities are a great place to ask questions, get feedback, and connect with other developers.
- GitHub and other code repositories: These platforms allow you to access and contribute to open-source projects, and learn from others’ code.
- Online courses and tutorials: There are many free and paid courses available online, including platforms like Udemy and Coursera, that can help you dive deeper into specific topics or technologies.
- Meetups and coding events in your area: Attending local events and meetups is a great way to connect with other developers, learn about new technologies, and build your network.
Resources:
Step 1: Learn backend basics by building basic API’s
- Codecademy – Learn JavaScript
- FreeCodeCamp – Responsive Web Design Certification
- W3Schools – JavaScript Tutorial
Step 2: Build more small API projects to boost your learning curve
Weather API Project Resources
- OpenWeatherMap – API Documentation
- WeatherStack – API Documentation
News Aggregator API Project Resources
- NewsAPI – API Documentation
- Google News – API Documentation
Stock Tracker API Project Resources
- Alpha Vantage – API Documentation
- Yahoo Finance – API Documentation
Recipe App API Project Resources
- Spoonacular – API Documentation
- Edamam – API Documentation
- RapidAPI – API Marketplace
Step 3: Get feedback and improve
- Reddit – /r/learnprogramming
- Hacker News – Ask HN: Who wants to be hired?
Step 4: Use free resources to learn more
- Stack Overflow – Questions and Answers
- GitHub – Code Repository
- Udemy – Free Online Courses
- Coursera – Free Online Courses
- Meetup – Find Developer Meetups
Additional Resources
- Dropout Developer – Learn Anything and Be Job Ready by Building Projects
In addition, there are many free resources available from Dropout Developer, including our app that aggregates the best resources from around the internet to help you learn anything and be job ready by building projects. We believe that everyone should have access to the tools and resources they need to succeed in the tech industry, regardless of their background or experience.
Finally, it’s important to showcase your completed projects in a portfolio or on a resume to help market yourself to potential employers. This can include a brief description of each project, the skills and tools used, and any notable accomplishments or challenges you overcame. Some popular portfolio platforms for developers include GitHub Pages, CodePen, and LinkedIn.
In conclusion, learning backend development in 60 days is a challenging but rewarding journey that can lead to a lucrative and fulfilling career in tech. By mastering the basics, building small API projects, getting feedback, using free resources to learn more, seeking out mentorship and community support, and showcasing your completed projects, you can become a backend developer in no time. Good luck on your journey!
